Tom Izzo: Keith Appling out 'a couple of weeks'

By Jeff Borzello | College Basketball Writer

February 9, 2014 3:40 PM ET

We keep hearing that a healthy Michigan State is as good or better than any team in the country. And that's probably true. But with the clock ticking toward Selection Sunday, the Spartans continue to rack up injuries.

Point guard Keith Appling surprisingly missed this week's game against Penn State with a wrist injury, and also was out in Sunday's loss to Wisconsin.

After the game, head coach Tom Izzo had an update on Appling's timetable for a return. An injury that seemed like maybe a game or two just to rest could turn into an extended absense, according to Izzo.

Izzo burying the lede: "I've got a feeling Appling is out a couple of weeks."

Appling, a 6-foot-1 senior, has been the catalyst for Michigan State this season. He's developed into one of the premier point guards in the country, averaging 15.0 points, 4.9 assists and shooting better than 40 percent from 3-point range.

Michigan State has home games against Northwestern and Nebraska this week, before heading on the road to Purdue and Michigan.